Dr. Chris Lee is the founder of Elemental Shift Consulting, a firm dedicated to helping leaders and organizations apply neuroscience-informed strategies to excel in high-pressure environments.
With over a decade of experience in the neuroscience field, Chris bridges the gap between research and real-world application, teaching executives how to regulate stress, sharpen focus, and design systems for sustainable growth. His consulting work spans finance, real estate, and technology, where he partners with C-suite teams to address challenges around burnout, executive function, and organizational performance. By combining leadership development with neuroscience-based frameworks, Chris has helped companies scale operations, foster resilience, and innovate while maintaining balance and well-being. As a recognized thought leader with an audience of more than one million and over 30 million monthly media impressions, Chris has built a global community around leadership, emotional intelligence, and self-regulation. His keynotes, workshops, and digital content are known for blending science, storytelling, and practical tools that empower high performers to take immediate action. Chris is also the host of the Wired for Wonder podcast, where he explores the intersection of neuroscience, leadership, and human potential. His mission is to help leaders turn chaos into clarity, stress into strategy, and ambition into meaningful, sustainable success.
Lauren Grady, Marketing Director, Freedom Institute
Lauren Grady, a versatile artist, mentor, and mom, stands out in various roles. Lauren’s ability to weave historical narratives into her photography is paralleled by her skill in storytelling for The Freedom Institute’s brand, making complex ideas accessible and engaging.
Her dedication to mentorship has dramatically impacted the lives of many students, inspiring them to harness their inner creativity. Lauren’s ability to connect with people is well-recognized, enhancing her role as a Marketing Director. She is a proud mom to a gifted 13-year-old. Lauren’s passion for her roles, from art to mentorship, resonates with people from all walks of life.
Lauren Maxwell - Lauren Maxwell - Naples, FL Loan Officer | CrossCountry Mortgage.
Lauren is the Executive Vice President of CrossCountry Mortgage and Team Leader of the Maxwell Mortgage Team. Her work is personal, her staff is like family, and the word “No” is not in her vocabulary. Helping people and making deals are what motivates her in life. Lauren’s career spans over 37 years, yet her focus has remained the same—to help first-time home buyers achieve the American Dream of owning a home. While leading a team Lauren is involved personally in every transaction, makes every effort to get every mortgage approved, and sends a representative to attend every closing within proximity of her office with a celebratory gift in hand. Lauren's motto is: “Financing the world one loan at a time.”
Entrepreneur and Business Owner - cosmetology Kate's Kuts Salon & Spa | Bonita Springs FL | SWFL
Kate has built a career in the hair and salon industry. She owns the salon, Kate's Kuts, in Bonita Springs. Her true passion is her newest project and non-profit organization, The Sensory Safe Salon, which provides Sensory Safe Certification and Training to stylists to help individuals with autism and/or sensory issues. Her goal is to globally transform the industry with the mission to educate, support, and grow stylists to be inclusive of all individuals.
Founding Board Member of The Freedom Institute
Tom Grady is a founding board member of The Freedom Institute of Collier County and a former Florida State Representative. He has also served as Chair of the Florida Department of Education and currently practices law as an attorney at Grady Law in Naples. Mr. Grady will lead the “Economic Freedom 101” workshop for high school students, focusing on personal finance, investing, and the principles of capitalism and socialism.
Founding Partner of the University Growth Fund
Peter Harris is a founding partner of the University Growth Fund, where he leads deal sourcing, due diligence, and portfolio management while mentoring students in the program. Previously, he was a principal at the University Venture Fund, contributing to the funding of several companies. Peter also has extensive experience as an international business consultant, having launched over 10 micro-franchises worldwide and sharing his insights and opportunities with students.
Chef-Partner of Campagna Hospitality Group A Sicilian native, Vincenzo Betulia grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, after his family emigrated from Sicily when he was 2. When on a vacation in Naples, Florida, Chef Vincenzo fell in love with the area and the dining scene. He is now a celebrated restaurateur and owns Bar Tulia, Bar Tulia Mercato, Osteria Tulia, The French, Rouge Steakhouses, and Tulia Catering.
Former Member of the Florida Senate
Garrett Richter is a Republican politician from Florida. He served as a member of the Florida Senate from 2008 to 2016, representing parts of Collier and Lee counties in Southwest Florida. Prior to being elected to the Senate, Richter served one term in the Florida House of Representatives, representing a Naples-based district from 2006 to 2008. Richter currently serves as the Executive Vice President, Market President of Florida at First Foundation Inc.
Education Developer and Instructor, Revs Institute
Michael Barbone, the Education Developer & Instructor for the RevsEd program, boasts a distinguished career spanning four decades that began in the automotive repair industry. He now dedicates his time to teaching automotive repair, igniting the minds of countless students. He is proud to contribute to the development of the RevsEd initiative and feels fortunate to have his life passions evolve into his dream position.
46th Governor of Florida
Governor Ron DeSantis visited The Freedom Institute of Collier County to emphasize Florida's education achievements and its top ranking in school choice nationwide. He engaged in a Q&A session with co-founder Tom Grady, discussing the diverse opportunities available to Florida students.
President, Young America's Foundation and 45th Governor of Wisconsin
Governor Scott Walker spoke about his current job responsibilities as the President of Young America's Foundation (YAF) and his political
journey as the former Wisconsin governor. He also shared opportunities for our students to get involved within the YAF.
General Manager, City of Marco Island Water and Sewer
Jeff Poteet shared about the organization, structure, and career opportunities available for students with the City of Marco Island,
specifically in the water and sewer department.
Director of Accelerated Pathways Programs, Florida SouthWestern State College - Collier Campus
Dr. Tammy Caraker presented to students and parents at an evening event about the fantastic dual enrollment opportunities available to
high school homeschool students. Many of our students seized the opportunity and are enrolled in dual enrollment courses this spring
semester.
President, Scout Comics
James Haick spoke to students about graphic design and the comic world industry. He shared his own path in entrepreneurship and how
he became successful in the comic world.
Owner, Rex Air
Keith West was our frst guest speaker at Freedom. He presented to students about the Rex Air facility, the history of aviation, and multiple
opportunities available to high school students interested in pursuing aviation careers.
